Kaetsu border castle ruins

The Kanetsu Border Castle ruins comprise a series of fortifications along the border of modern Ishikawa and Toyama Prefectures, significant for their role during the Sengoku period. These ruins include Kiriyama Castle and Matsune Castle, built by the Maeda and Sassa clans, respectively, amidst conflict over regional power struggles. Archaeological excavations have uncovered defensive features like dry moats, fortified gates, and earthen ramparts, as well as transportation routes connecting these castles. These sites were part of strategic defenses during the late 16th century and were eventually decommissioned under the Tokugawa shogunate's policy. The ruins provide valuable insights into the military strategies and border defenses during a tumultuous period in Japanese history.